[Solved] Indian Coinage (200 BCE - 300 CE) | Guilds & Kings

Which one of the following statements about coins struck during 200 BCE to 300 CE in the Indian sub - continent is not correct?

[CAPF 2022]

⚡ Generate AI Quick Summary

Correct Option: D

The statement that the absence of Negama coins suggests the decline of merchant guilds is incorrect. Guilds remained powerful economic entities throughout this period.

A. The Indo-Greeks introduced bilingual and biscript legends on their coins.

B. The Kushanas minted large quantities of gold coins as well as copper coins of low denomination.

C. The Satavahanas issued coins of silver, copper, lead and potin.

D. Absence of Negama coins suggests the declining power and authority of merchant guilds.

Analysis & Evidence

Concept

The period between 200 BCE and 300 CE was a revolutionary era in Indian numismatics, characterized by foreign influences and the economic empowerment of local commercial guilds.

Authentic Source Evidence

Merchant guilds remained extremely powerful during this era. 'Negama' coins were local guild currencies used in the Gandhara region. Their absence in later periods does not equate to a decline in guild authority; guilds continued to manage regional commerce and administration.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option A is correct; Indo-Greeks used Greek and Brahmi/Kharosthi legends.

Logic 2: Option B is correct; Kushans are famous for high-purity gold Dinars and copper for local use.

Logic 3: Option C is correct; Satavahanas were unique in using diverse materials like lead and potin (an alloy of copper/zinc/tin).

Historical Logic Quest

"What was the purpose of 'Negama' coins?"

They were issued by merchant guilds (Nigamas) for local trade, serving as specialized currency for commercial transactions within a specific city like Taxila.

The Topper's Edge

"The diversity of metals and scripts used in this period reflects the intense commercialization and cosmopolitan nature of post-Mauryan India."

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